Torso stretch at work can relieve stiff back

When work has you glued to your desk and you feel your back stiffening up, try this simple torso stretch for a few minutes. It helps loosen those tight areas and counters the effects of prolonged sitting.

1) Push your chair away from your desk, sit on the front edge of the chair and place both feet hip-width apart. Inhale, raise your arms straight up, separating them so they are shoulder-width apart, palms facing in. On an exhale, keep your back straight and lean forward from your hips until your upper body rests on your lap. Reach your fingertips to the floor.

2) On an inhale, twist your upper spine to your right and raise your right arm until your hand points to the ceiling. Look up toward your hand. Hold this position for three breaths. Lower your hand to the floor and repeat on the other side.

-- Karen Voight

Karen Voight can be reached at kvoightla@aol.com.